“Mannheim Is My New Home”
Back when she was in school in Bulgaria, Sara Shabanova was far more likely to dream of a life in Spain than in Mannheim. Yet, after leaving school, she decided to move to Germany together with her brother. She is currently in the eighth semester of her bachelor's degree in Business Administration at the University of Mannheim. In her myUniMAstory, she shares how it all came together—and why baking can teach you a thing or two about life.
What was your life like in Bulgaria?
I was born in the capital, Sofia, where I grew up with my brother. I have many fond memories of my school years. Back then, I studied English and Spanish and even considered moving to Spain after finishing school because I was fascinated by the language and the lifestyle.
So how did you end up in Germany?
My brother received an offer from a local amateur football club in Heidelberg, which he accepted. My parents then encouraged me to look for a place at a university in Germany, so we could stay together. At first, I had my doubts, but I eventually started taking my first German language courses in Bulgaria. After we moved, I continued taking German language courses at the University of Mannheim through the Studium Generale before applying to a degree program.
Is that how you decided to study at the university?
Not exactly—I had known about the university for some time before taking the language courses. The daughter of a family friend studied here; I met her after we had moved to Germany, and she showed me around campus. That really convinced me—I loved the Schloss and the University Library. I chose to pursue a degree in Business Administration because I’d like to open my own small bakery one day. I love baking cakes and pastries. The program gives me the knowledge I need to run a business, and I can connect with like-minded people.
What was it like adjusting to life in Germany?
The first few months were challenging, but I settled in quickly. Thanks to the language courses, I met many international students even before starting my degree, so I didn’t feel alone. Now I truly feel at home—Mannheim is my new home. The city is just the right size for me, and I like its central location. Whenever I’ve been abroad over the past few years, I’ve actually missed Mannheim (laughs).
Where else have you gained international experience?
In 2024, I spent a semester abroad in Spain —an unforgettable experience that enriched me culturally. I met many exchange students and now have friends all over the world (laughs). Last year, I also completed a two-month traineeship at the European Parliament in Brussels. What really stood out to me was how positively colleagues reacted when I told them I study in Mannheim. Many recognized the university as highly reputable—I hadn’t realized just how strong its reputation is.
What advice would you give to international students?
Don’t give up too quickly, even when things get tough. It’s like following a recipe: When I first started baking, my early attempts didn’t turn out very well. But I kept trying—and eventually, it worked. When you push past the first obstacles, you begin to see how strong you truly are.
Do you already know what comes next after your bachelor’s degree?
I definitely plan to also pursue my master’s degree at the University of Mannheim. After that, I might start my own small business—but we’ll see what the future holds.
Interview: Tina Ratajczyk I April 2026